Scientific name Canis lupus familiaris Higher classification Dog | Rank Breed | |
Breed status Not recognized as a standardized breed by any major kennel club. Similar Artois Hound, Hygen Hound, Kyi‑Leo, Schillerstövare, Briquet Griffon Vendéen | ||
Kerry beagle dog breed
The Kerry Beagle (Irish: An Pocadán Ciarraíoch) is one of the oldest Irish hound breeds, believed to be descendant from the Old Southern Hound or Celtic Hounds.
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Appearance
It is unclear why the name 'Beagle' has been applied, as the Kerry Beagle is a medium-sized hound; height is between 56–61 cm (22–24 in), weight is up to 27 kg (60 lb), sharing little in common with the Beagle. The Kerry Beagle has a broad head, a short coat and long ears, black and tan is the more common colour but the coat may be tan and white, blue mottled and tan or black. The breed's looks suggests speed and endurance.
Temperament
This breed of dog is a pack hound and does hold the hunting instinct strong. They do however make very good pets as they are good with children and other dogs. They require a lot of exercise, regular twice to three times daily walks and free runs.
History & use
The Kerry Beagle is an ancient breed, believed to date back to the 16th century; detailed pedigrees date back as far as 1794. Local legend has it that when Noah's ark came to rest against Galtymore, the highest peak in Tipperary, two black and tan hounds scented a fox and leapt off in pursuit, never to be seen again. By the 1800s the Kerry Beagle's numbers had dwindled in Ireland, with only one major pack maintained, the famous Scarteen of County Limerick belonging to the Ryan family, which still exists today.
Originally bred as Stag hounds, today they are used to hunt fox and hare and take part in drag hunting.
The Kerry Beagle was taken by many Irish immigrants to the Americas, and is considered a foundation breed in development of the Coonhound.